Michael Connelly 1944-2025

Michael was born July 10, 1944, in Pittsburgh, Pa., to William and Louise Connelly. The oldest of four boys, Michael was raised with his brothers in McKeesport, Pa., where his intellectual talents and love of sports blossomed.

Michael attended Villanova University before enlisting in the Navy in 1964. He was eventually stationed on the USS. Randolph. Michael’s capacity for discretion and ability to handle complex information led to his being chosen as executive assistant to the Admiral. Michael was honorably discharged in 1967, having achieved the rank of yeoman petty officer 2nd class.

Michael moved to Youngstown and attended Youngstown State University, where he obtained his bachelor’s degree in economics and master’s degree in business administration.

His serendipitous choice of apartments led to living across the hall from Cecilia McGovern. After a short courtship, they married in 1970. The 1970s were a special decade for Michael as he had three children, and the Steelers won four Super Bowls.

Michael retired as director of the Youngstown Employment Training Corporation in 2000. Shortly after, he and Cele moved to Pawleys Island, South Carolina, where Michael pursued his passion for golf. He also was an avid reader of crime fiction, a crossword puzzle enthusiast and an unabashed Hallmark movie aficionado.

Most of all, Michael cherished his time in Pawley’s low country with Cele and his children, who loved to visit.

Michael is survived by his daughters, Jennifer Connelly and Ann (Sameet) Patadia; son, Patrick (Rachael) Connelly; grandchildren, Leo, Lucelle and Demi; and brothers, Tim, Kevin (Kayce) and Mark (Mary) Connelly.

He was preceded in his death by his wife of 47 years, Cecilia.

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